Space RTS & 4X hybrid like Total War called Ephemeris l Alpha Gameplay & Crowdfunding info

Summary

Ephemeris is a unique RTS and 4X hybrid game, reminiscent of Total War but set in space, developed by a passionate indie developer. Players manage a star empire through turn-based strategy while engaging in real-time battles using customizable warships. The game features a dynamic tech tree, diverse planet types, and complex economic management. Players can explore space using various methods and must handle rebellions and resource distribution strategically. A crowdfunding campaign is underway to enhance development, with stretch goals for added features. The game promises engaging gameplay, allowing players to experience rich tactical battles and empire-building in a fully 3D environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 'Ephemeris' is a hybrid RTS and 4X game developed by a solo creator, inspired by titles like Total War.
• 🚀 Players manage a star system on a turn-based strategy layer and engage in real-time battles with customizable warships.
• 🌌 The game features randomly populated planets with various resources, influencing gameplay dynamics and strategies.
• 🔧 Players can design their own ships, choosing from a variety of hulls, weapons, power cores, and special items.
• ⚔️ Combat mechanics include fully 3D real-time space battles with simulated physics, enhancing immersion and strategy.
• 📊 An innovative slider system allows players to allocate resources dynamically for building, ship production, research, and credits.
• 🛰️ Exploration can be conducted using probes, science ships, and colony ships, allowing for diverse gameplay experiences.
• 👥 The developer has launched a crowdfunding campaign to gather support, aiming to raise €30,000 for further game development.
• 📅 Stretch goals for the campaign include additional features like ship boarding gameplay, warp gates, and professional voice lines.
• 🤝 Community involvement is encouraged through feedback and sharing the crowdfunding initiative to help shape the game's future.

Q & A

What is the primary genre of Ephemeris?

Ephemeris is a hybrid game that combines real-time strategy (RTS) with 4X elements, similar to games like Total War but set in a space environment.

How does the game handle combat?

Combat in Ephemeris features fully 3D real-time space battles with simulated physics, allowing ships to maneuver realistically, including braking burns and complex movements.

What unique features does Ephemeris offer for ship design?

Players can customize their ships extensively, choosing from various hull types, weapon systems, power cores, and mount types (fixed, gimbal, or turret), enabling diverse tactical options.

What kind of gameplay mechanics does Ephemeris include beyond combat?

The game includes turn-based strategy elements, economic management, diplomacy with other species, and exploration through randomly populated planets with various resource types.

How does resource management work in the game?

Players use a slider system to allocate resources among building production, ship construction, research, and credits, allowing for strategic decisions based on their current objectives.

What role does exploration play in Ephemeris?

Exploration is crucial and can be conducted through various means such as probes, cargo ships, or colony ships. Establishing connections between planets helps facilitate trade and support systems.

What is the purpose of the crowdfunding campaign?

The crowdfunding campaign aims to gather financial support to finalize the game for Early Access on Steam, allowing the developer to expand features and enhance the game's quality based on community feedback.

What is the initial funding goal for the crowdfunding campaign?

The initial funding goal for the campaign is €30,000, with additional stretch goals that include more ship models, new gameplay mechanics, and professional voice lines.

How does the developer intend to involve the community in the game's development?

The developer encourages community involvement by allowing backers to access the alpha version of the game, providing feedback, and participating in the development process.

What distinguishes Ephemeris from other space strategy games?

Ephemeris is distinguished by its realistic space combat mechanics, extensive ship customization options, and a focus on player-driven empire management and exploration, all set within a dynamically generated universe.